Program Overview

Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is an internationally-recognised advanced research qualification. Each PhD candidate undertakes a substantial piece of independent and sustained research on an original topic under academic supervision and leading to the submission of a thesis for examination.

Key Facts

• Award: Doctor of Philosophy
• Start dates: Anytime (2026)
• Duration: 4 years full-time or part-time equivalent
• Learning mode: Research Training

About the Doctor of Philosophy

The PhD degree is designed to make a significantly new and innovative contribution to the discipline. Candidates are supported by at least two accredited supervisors with a demonstrated track record in the proposed area of investigation. Progress throughout the degree is tracked and managed in keeping with the University's Graduate Research Progress Policy.

Academic Entry Requirement

The minimum academic requirement for entry to a PhD at La Trobe University is a Master's by research degree in a relevant discipline completed within the last ten years assessed at a La Trobe Master's by research thesis standard of 70 or above.

Pathways

A pathway is an alternative way for a student to get into their dream course if direct entry isn't an option. The following pathways are available for the Doctor of Philosophy:

• Master of Arts
• Master of Business (Research)
• Master of Education (Research)
• Master of Engineering (Research)
• Master of Laws (Research)
• Master of Nursing (Research)
• Master of Philosophy
• Master of Psychological Science (Research)
• Master of Science
• Master of Social Work (Research)

What You'll Study

The PhD involves a range of work-based learning opportunities, including internships, mentoring, and industry-linked projects. Candidates who have successfully confirmed their candidature and who are making satisfactory progress may apply to participate in an internship at least one month before they submit their thesis.

Course and Career Outcomes

The Doctor of Philosophy is an internationally recognised intensive research doctoral degree that will equip graduates for employment in a range of occupations and positions across academic, government, non-government, education, and private industries.

Fees and Scholarships

Australian and New Zealand citizens and Australian permanent residents do not usually pay tuition fees for graduate research degrees, as the fees are covered by the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP). Various scholarships are available for domestic and international students, including:

• Dennis McDermott Research Scholarships
• La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship (FLEX) - candidates with disabilities
• Graduate Research PhD Project Scholarships
• La Trobe University - Sheffield Hallam University Joint PhD Program Scholarship
• La Trobe University - IIT Kanpur Joint PhD Program Scholarship
• La Trobe University - University of Bayreuth Joint PhD Program Scholarship
• Victorian Maternal and Child Health Nursing Scholarship
• Return of Native Title Materials PhD Scholarship
• Creating Safer Sport Communities PhD Scholarship
• Transforming early autism screening with multimodal AI

How to Apply

Applications for the Doctor of Philosophy can be made directly through the university. Some courses start earlier than the standard semester, term, or study period, and applications for these courses close one week prior. Always check the course's start date to ensure the application is submitted in time.